It’s been 30 years since Antonio Cagnolo opened what has become “The Place,” where the region’s movers and shakers go to share a meal, negotiate a deal or just have some fun. And to celebrate, the team at Antonello Ristorante in South Coast Village will be rolling out special menus and events throughout the year.

In operation since 1979, Antonello Ristorante has been a cornerstone in Orange County’s fine dining scene. And it’s not just the locals who think so; the restaurant has earned a number of distinctions, including the AAA Four Diamond Award 11 years
in a row.

The authentic menu of entrées served at the restaurant was inspired by Mama Pina, Cagnolo’s mother, and perfected by Executive Chef Franco Barone. Each dish is made with only the finest, freshest ingredients. The Rigatoni alla Musco con Pollo – named in honor of Paul Musco, a local philanthropist and businessman – is among the most popular choices. With this dish, you get a generous serving of pasta in a garlic-and-sun-dried-tomato sauce, with asparagus and grilled chicken. And the Gnocchetti Fontina e Tartufo (homemade potato dumplings in a creamy, cheesy sauce laced with truffle oil) is pure indulgence.

But the absolute must-try dish: Ravioletti di Mamma Pina, with its mini-ravioli (homemade, of course) in a veal Bolognese sauce – Cagnolo’s mother’s own recipe.

And, of course, you’ll find an extensive selection of wines to choose from.

In addition to Antonello, Antonio Cagnolo also owns Nello Cucina in Crystal Court, and Antonello Espresso Bar and Quattro Café in South Coast Plaza.


MORE TASTY DESTINATIONS

Bistro West
After achieving success in Carlsbad with a menu that proves it’s possible to serve comfort food with a touch of sophistication (read: the peaceful co-existence of meatloaf and mahi-mahi on the same menu), Bistro West opened a second restaurant in December, at The District. Now, Bistro West has expanded its services to include the epitome of class-meets-casual dining: brunch. Every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Bistro West offers a brunch menu of unique specialties, such as the Short Ribs and Swiss Omelette, and the Bacon and Spinach Quiche, in addition to traditional breakfast favorites such as pancakes, waffles and french toast. Comforting, indeed. 2601 Park Ave., The District, Tustin; 714.259.9378

21 Oceanfront
Newport Beach’s elegant 21 Oceanfront has revamped its happy hour menu, offering 50 percent off appetizers and other specially priced items, including New England clam chowder for $4 and the restaurant’s popular shrimp scampi for $8. Drink in the serenity of the setting sun and tranquil Newport Beach coastline while sipping on a glass of wine or well drinks priced at $6 for happy hour. 2100 W. Oceanfront, Newport Beach; 949.673.2100

Code Restaurant & Lounge
Here’s a place where you can indulge in a delectable menu of global cuisine and then dance those calories away. And starting in March, Code will be hosting a “Do You Think You Can Dance?” competition every Wednesday for 10 weeks. Each week, 10 contestants will compete for cash prizes. The Grand Finale winner could get up to $5,000 and a chance to perform in front of a panel of celebrity judges. Along with great dining and excellent entertainment, Code features a fantastic happy hour Monday through Friday, from 4 to 7 p.m. The menu features selected items at half-off the usual price, including the restaurant’s delicious organic chicken skewer salad, mixed with charbroiled vegetables and topped with a delightful yogurt sauce. 4221 Dolphin Striker Way, Newport Beach; 949.551.2998

Jack Shrimp
After 20 years of serving authentic Louisiana cuisine and nothing but wild-caught Gulf shrimp, Jack Shrimp is still going strong. Owner Jack Jasper is marking the anniversary with special promotions throughout the year, but you’ll still be able to find the same great quality food, signature secret sauces and special deals. All bottles of wine are half-price on Tuesdays. Diners can share an entrée at no additional cost. Lunch portions and prices are available all day. It’s no wonder that business jumped by 40 percent last year. 2400 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach; 949.650.5577

JT Schmid's
Have a birthday or anniversary coming up? Then you might want to consider enrolling in JT Schmid’s Loyalty Program. You’ll get a logo T-shirt and a free dessert with the purchase of two entrées on your birthday. And if it’s your anniversary, you’ll get a free dessert. You’ll also get e-mail notices for special promotions and discounts throughout the year. The restaurant bills itself as Orange County’s finest brewhouse, steakhouse and clubhouse, but you’ll also find a selection of fabulous pizzas, as well as pasta and seafood dishes. 2610 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim; 714.634.9200. 2415 Park Ave., The District, Tustin; 714.258.0333

Prime Cut Café & Wine Bar
Fresh to the city of Orange, the Prime Cut Café offers an elegant variety of American favorites, ranging from the classic burger to slow-roasted prime rib with traditional Yorkshire pudding and creamed spinach. This new addition to Orange’s family of restaurants appeals to those craving top-notch food while avoiding paying top dollar. Enjoy the delightful taste of a 10-ounce sirloin steak, aged to perfection and served with potato gratin and roasted garlic, for less than $20. And the wine list is equally impressive, offering more than 75 labels – 70 percent of them priced under $50 a bottle. 1547 W. Katella Ave., Suite 101, Orange; 714.532.4300

~ Compiled by Kaysie Ellingson and Adam Pringle